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The Role of the Guardian Ad Litem

During child custody cases, a guardian ad litem may be appointed by a judge to help determine what is in the best interest of the child. If you find yourself in the midst of a child custody dispute involving a court-appointed guardian ad litem (GAL), turn to Peterson Law PLC in Chesapeake, Virginia. At our firm, our attorneys have handled a variety of these cases with the utmost care and dignity, and we are ready to assist you.

A Fundamental Part of Most Custody Cases

Few understand the fundamental responsibilities of a guardian ad litem. While most believe that the court-appointed individual makes recommendations to the court regarding the best interests of an infant, minor, or mentally incompetent individual, the GAL does so much more.

Often attorneys for GALs work to protect their client’s rights, while providing balance during the complicated decision-making process. Backed by more than a decade of experience, the certified ad litem attorney from our firm is ready to protect the rights of a child and the mentally handicapped. We have extensive experience in the following:

Divorce Cases

Child Neglect Cases

Paternity Suits

Child Custody Cases

Child Abuse Cases

Contested Inheritances

Understanding the Role of a Certified Ad Litem Attorney

Very few have an in-depth understanding of ad litem lawyer. If a GAL is appointed for your case, there are many important things you need to know. First, the GAL is empowered instead of parents/guardians, children, your child custody lawyer, and any other third parties to inspect the home environment and report their findings to the court during the trail.

Please note that your ad litem attorney also has the right to interview family members and conduct home visits. In some cases, they may prepare and provide a written report to the judge and counsel; however, most reports are completed orally at the end of the trial. After making a report, counsel and the judge are given the opportunity to ask questions regarding the thorough investigation.

Advice from an Ad Litem Lawyer

When in the presence of a GAL, it is important for you to remember that you are under observation, and should therefore be on your very best behavior. Make frequent phone calls, ask for advice, and offer assistance to show that you are engaged throughout the duration of the process. Most importantly, stay humble and avoid talking about your estranged spouse.

Contact our team to speak with us about the importance of a Guardian Ad Litem in your custody case. Our firm is available to meet with military and civilian clients throughout Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake, Virginia.